Garden Center Manager

Business Title:
- Garden Center Manager

Job Purpose:
- To oversee all aspects of the garden center's operations, ensuring profitability, customer satisfaction, and a thriving plant and product environment. This includes managing staff, inventory, merchandising, and maintaining high standards of quality and service within the Costellos ACE brand.

Key Responsibilities:
- Manage and motivate the garden center team, including hiring, training, scheduling, and performance management.
- Oversee daily operations of the garden center, including opening and closing procedures, cash handling, and customer service.
- Develop and implement strategies to achieve sales goals and maximize profitability within the garden center.
- Manage inventory levels, ensuring appropriate stock of plants, gardening supplies, and related products, while minimizing waste and shrinkage.
- Oversee merchandising and visual displays to create an attractive and appealing shopping experience for customers.
- Maintain a high level of plant health and quality, ensuring proper watering, fertilization, pest control, and overall care.
- Provide expert advice and guidance to customers on plant selection, care, and gardening techniques.
- Ensure compliance with all company policies and procedures, as well as relevant safety regulations.
- Monitor market trends and competitor activities to identify opportunities for growth and improvement within the garden center.
- Collaborate with other departments within Costellos ACE to ensure seamless operations and a positive customer experience.
- Manage the garden center's budget and expenses effectively.
- Address customer inquiries and complaints in a professional and timely manner.
- Maintain a clean, organized, and safe working environment for both staff and customers.

Required Education:
- High School Diploma or equivalent; Bachelor's Degree in Business, Horticulture, or a related field preferred.

Required Experience:
- Minimum of 3 years of experience in retail management, preferably in a garden center or similar environment.
- Proven experience in managing a team, including hiring, training, scheduling, and performance management.
- Demonstrated success in achieving sales targets and managing inventory.
- Experience with plant care, gardening techniques, and pest/disease management is highly desirable.
- Experience with point-of-sale (POS) systems and inventory management software.

Required Skills and Abilities:
- Excellent customer service skills and the ability to build rapport with customers.
- Strong leadership and communication skills, both written and verbal.
- Ability to motivate and inspire a team to achieve common goals.
- Strong organizational and time management skills with the ability to prioritize tasks effectively.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- Ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously in a fast-paced environment.
- Problem-solving and decision-making skills.
- Basic computer skills, including proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
- Physical ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
- Ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions.
- Passion for gardening and plants.